The Ninja Kids
Playable character focused on fast close-range weapon attacks.
Documented for this version
Joystick | Move the ninja The joystick controls movement in eight directions. |
|---|---|
Button 1 | Attack Performs the standard close-range attack. |
Button 2 | Jump Makes the ninja jump. |
Button 3 | Special attack Uses the character’s special attack when available. |
Arcade button labels can vary by cabinet wiring or regional setup.
How it plays
The game uses a side-scrolling perspective. Players advance from left to right, defeat enemy groups, and reach the end of each stage, where a boss encounter usually awaits.
Movement, normal attacks, jumping, and special attacks form the basic combat system. Up to four players can cooperate, and progress comes from clearing stages rather than from a character-leveling system.
Plan your run
Stay near the center of the group so enemies cannot surround you from both sides. Use jumping attacks to approach safely, then return to grounded attacks when opponents are clustered.
In multiplayer, spread across the screen without separating too far. Save powerful special attacks for dense enemy waves and boss openings rather than spending them on isolated enemies.
Meet the cast
Playable character focused on fast close-range weapon attacks.
Playable character with a balanced mid-range weapon style.
Playable character who uses shuriken for longer-range pressure.
Before you begin
Keep moving when several enemies enter from opposite sides.
Use the stage edges carefully; being cornered makes recovery difficult.
Coordinate attacks in multiplayer so one player can cover the other’s landing.
The Ninja Kids is a 1990 arcade beat 'em up developed and published by Taito. Players control small ninja heroes who battle through colorful stages filled with masked enemies, theatrical bosses, and destructible scenery. The game supports cooperative play and uses straightforward side-scrolling action: move, strike, jump, and use special attacks to clear groups of opponents. Its bright puppet-theater presentation gives the otherwise familiar brawler format a distinctive identity. The game was well regarded in arcades for its lively visuals, accessible controls, and chaotic multiplayer action, although it remained less widely known than Taito's larger beat 'em up hits.
Catalog entry maintained by EmuGamers Editorial Team
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0